Testimony begins in the legal battle over a controversial Broken Arrow casino

A federal judge hears arguments in the case of a controversial casino being constructed in Broken Arrow.

Neighbors don’t want the Red Clay Casino being built by the Kialegee Tribal Town. The attorney general has entered the case, seeking an injunction to halt construction. In arguments before Judge Greg Frizzel, state’s attorneys say the casino violates tribal compacts and doesn’t have the necessary permission from the Creek Nation.

Lawyers for the Kialegees claim they don’t need permission, and that the law prohibits local governments from vetoing tribal decisions.

Testimony should conclude Friday. Meanwhile, contruction on the casino continues.